Vargas getting extended look at first base

BALTIMORE -- Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said he's going to continue to find ways to get rookie Kennys Vargas looks at first base down the stretch, which will also give Joe Mauer opportunities to serve as designated hitter here and there.

Vargas made his sixth start of the year at first base on Saturday against the Orioles, as Mauer made his 14th start at designated hitter. It was the second straight day Vargas started at first base in place of Mauer.

"I want to see Vargas play some first base," Gardenhire said. "So it'll give Joe some DH days. He's a little beat up from a couple plays in Kansas City and I don't want to mess around with it. So this is the easiest thing to do. Plus, it gives me a chance to look at Vargas."

Vargas has made a big impression offensively in his first month, as he's just one of three Major Leaguers in history to have at least 34 hits and 24 RBIs in a debut month. He joins Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio, who had 48 hits and 28 RBIs in May,1936, and Albert Pujols, who had 34 hits and 27 RBIs in April, 2001.